Researchers at Pohang University of Science and Technology reported a spinal cord implant that stays stiff for surgical insertion and then softens within minutes after contact with bodily fluids. The team published the work in npj Flexible Electronics.

The device uses a water‑soluble sacrificial layer to create unidirectional, dynamic stiffness. That layer keeps the implant rigid for threading through the spinal canal and dissolves after placement, allowing the device to conform to the spinal cord and move with neural tissue.

The researchers replaced traditional solid metal traces with liquid metal conductors. According to the paper, liquid metal preserves electrical properties even as the device deforms, which helps maintain stable stimulation and recording during motion. The team also used laser processing and avoided costly gold-based semiconductor steps to reduce manufacturing costs, the authors said.

In rat experiments the implant was attached to the spinal cord and used to modulate the sympathetic nervous system. The device lowered blood pressure in those tests and recorded sensory signals produced by painful paw stimulation. The authors describe the system as a bidirectional neural interface capable of both stimulation and sensing. The results reported are from animal models; the paper does not report human testing.

"This is a neural interface technology that combines mechanical and electrical performance alongside the convenience required in clinical settings," said Professor Sung‑Min Park, who led the study. He added the design has potential to evolve into an "intelligent neuromodulation system for treating chronic diseases."

The authors suggest the approach could be adapted to other peripheral targets such as the vagus or tibial nerves for conditions that respond to neuromodulation. The original publication is credited to Sunguk Hong et al. and provided by Pohang University of Science and Technology.

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Tags: spinal cord stimulation, liquid metal, flexible electronics, neuromodulation, animal study

Topics: Neuromodulation, Neuroprosthetics & neural implants, Neuroscience & neuroplasticity